If you’re visiting Asheville and have a taste for history, cocktails, and a bit of fun storytelling, the Roaring ’20s Walking Tour with Drinks offers an engaging glimpse into the city’s Prohibition era. For $99 per person, over two hours, you’ll stroll through Asheville’s historic district, stopping at three popular venues to sample their signature cocktails and hear stories about gangsters, speakeasies, and the city’s spirit-making past. Our guide, Don, brings a lively and knowledgeable presence, making the experience both entertaining and educational.
What we really appreciate about this tour is how it brings the 1920s alive—not just through drinks but via engaging tales of Asheville’s clandestine nightlife and the craftsmanship behind local spirits. Plus, the pacing is well-managed, with short walks between venues, allowing you to savor each stop without feeling rushed. The tour’s focus on authentic local establishments offers a genuine taste of Asheville’s history, rather than a sanitized version.
One consideration: the tour is only about two hours long, so if you’re looking for an in-depth dive into the era or a more extensive pub crawl, this might feel a bit brief. Also, it’s primarily aimed at those aged 21 and over, which is typical for a cocktail tour. Overall, it’s well-suited for history buffs, cocktail enthusiasts, and anyone curious about Asheville’s unique past in a lively, social setting.
Key Points
- Historical Focus: Learn about Asheville’s prohibition era, gangsters, speakeasies, and local spirit craftsmanship.
- Authentic Venues: Visit three popular, well-regarded establishments within Asheville’s historic district.
- Signature Cocktails: Enjoy three different house specialties, each tailored to the 1920s theme.
- Guided Experience: Led by an engaging, knowledgeable guide, with personal storytelling adding depth.
- Paced for Comfort: Short walks between venues keep the experience relaxed and enjoyable.
- Age Restrictions: Not suitable for pregnant women or those under 21.
A Well-Prepared Walk Through Asheville’s 1920s Past
If you’re intrigued by the idea of stepping back in time to an era of flappers, gangsters, and secret bars, this tour offers a lively, approachable way to explore Asheville’s history. Over the course of two hours, you’ll walk through the city’s historic district, visiting three well-known venues. These aren’t just random bars—they’re chosen for their historical significance and their connection to Asheville’s craftsmanship in spirits.
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The Itinerary and Stops
While the specific venues aren’t named here, the tour typically includes stops at establishments renowned for their ambiance, signature cocktails, and stories of the Prohibition era. These places are carefully selected to give you a taste of what nightlife was like during the 1920s, with some serving as actual historic speakeasies or inspired by that era. Expect to sample different cocktails at each stop, which are crafted as house specialties — a real treat for cocktail lovers.
What Makes Each Stop Special?
Each venue offers a different perspective on Asheville’s past. One might be an elegant yet cozy bar with vintage decor that transports you to the Jazz Age, while another could be a modern spot that pays homage to the underground speakeasies of yesteryears. Our guide often shares fascinating trivia, such as how Asheville was known for its craftsmanship in spirits, which ties into the city’s long-standing tradition of handcrafted liquors.
The Guide’s Role
Don’s storytelling is a highlight. As one reviewer noted, he’s both knowledgeable—blending personal experience and historical facts—and entertaining. His stories about Asheville’s prohibition days, gangster tales, and the local spirit scene make the tour more than just a drinking activity; it becomes a mini history lesson with a lively twist.
More Great Tours NearbyWalking and Pacing
The total walking distance is about three blocks, making it quite manageable for most. The short walks between venues keep the experience relaxed, but be prepared for some standing and mingling. If you have low tolerance or prefer a slower pace, pacing yourself during the sampling is advisable, especially since each cocktail is a house specialty.
The Cocktails
Sampling three signature drinks is a fun way to engage with the era’s essence. These aren’t watered-down or overly sweet drinks—they are thoughtfully crafted to reflect the 1920s style, often with a modern twist. It’s an excellent chance for cocktail enthusiasts to try something new and learn more about classic mixology.
Who Will Appreciate This Tour?
This experience suits history buffs, cocktail aficionados, and anyone interested in the unique character of Asheville. If you enjoy storytelling, discovering local craftsmanship, or just want to add a fun, social experience to your trip, you’ll likely find this tour both enjoyable and memorable. Keep in mind that it’s not designed for those under 21 or pregnant women, as alcohol is involved.
The Value of the Experience
At $99, the tour offers an engaging way to combine education, local culture, and cocktails—all within a compact, well-paced activity. Considering that you visit three venues, sample three cocktails, and gain insights from a personable guide, the value is quite good for those interested in a lively, authentic experience. Plus, since it’s a guided tour, you don’t have to worry about navigating or figuring out historical details; just relax and enjoy.
Authenticity and Atmosphere
The blend of storytelling with visits to established local venues makes this experience feel genuine rather than touristy. The venues’ historical significance adds a layer of depth, and the guide’s firsthand anecdotes (including personal stories from his grandfather) make the tales more relatable and vivid.
Considerations
While some reviews mention no-shows or last-minute cancellations, the flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind. Also, since the tour is only in the afternoon, travelers with morning plans will need to fit this into their schedule.
Final Thoughts
For those looking to combine history, local spirit traditions, and social fun, this Roaring ’20s walking tour delivers a lot of value. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy storytelling, historic ambiance, and tasting local cocktails. The knowledgeable guide, combined with Asheville’s charming historic district, creates an experience that’s memorable without feeling overly touristy.
If you’re interested in Asheville’s past and want to enjoy it through a relaxed, social afternoon, this tour hits the right notes. It’s an excellent choice for small groups, couples, or solo travelers keen to connect with the city’s vibrant character during one of its most colorful eras.
FAQs
Do I need to make a reservation in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak times. You can book now and pay later, giving you flexibility.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a broader range of travelers.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card, especially since alcohol is involved. Comfortable walking shoes are also advisable.
How long does the tour take?
The tour is approximately 2 hours long, with visits to three venues and short walks in between.
Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol?
Since three signature cocktails are included, the tour is best suited for those who can legally drink. Non-drinkers might find it less appealing but could still enjoy the storytelling.
Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for anyone under 21 or pregnant women due to alcohol consumption.
What’s the price?
The tour costs $99 per person, which includes the guide, three stops, and three signature cocktails.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.
Is the experience suitable for large groups?
The experience is designed for small groups, ensuring an intimate, engaging atmosphere.
Will I learn about Asheville’s craft spirits?
Yes, the tour highlights Asheville’s history of handcrafted spirit production, adding depth to the experience.
To sum it up, the Asheville Roaring ’20s Walking Tour with Drinks offers a lively, authentic look at a fascinating period in the city’s past, paired with the enjoyment of signature cocktails. If you appreciate storytelling, local craftsmanship, and a social atmosphere, it’s a superb way to spend an afternoon. Just remember to pace yourself and enjoy the historical tales as much as the drinks.
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